As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’ve noticed that questions about government funding for alternative energy research have appeared frequently in recent years. This topic is likely to continue being relevant due to growing global concerns about climate change and energy security. Let’s examine a specific question on this subject and explore how to craft effective responses for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people think that governments should spend money on researching alternative sources of energy. Others believe that this money should be spent on improving existing energy sources. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should fund research on alternative energy sources
- Discuss the view that governments should invest in improving existing energy sources
- Provide your own opinion on the issue
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question in your essay to achieve a high band score. Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Energy policy is a critical issue facing governments worldwide, and there is ongoing debate about how to allocate research funding. While some argue for investing in alternative energy sources, others believe improving existing technologies is more beneficial. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both strategies is the most effective solution.
Those who advocate for research into alternative energy sources argue that this is essential for long-term sustainability. They contend that fossil fuels are finite and environmentally damaging, necessitating the development of cleaner, renewable alternatives such as solar, wind, and hydrogen power. Proponents of this view believe that government funding can accelerate innovation in these fields, leading to breakthroughs that could revolutionize our energy landscape and mitigate climate change.
On the other hand, supporters of improving existing energy sources argue that this approach is more practical and cost-effective in the short to medium term. They point out that current infrastructure is built around traditional energy sources, and significant improvements in efficiency and emissions reduction can be achieved by enhancing these technologies. For instance, developing cleaner coal technologies or improving the efficiency of natural gas power plants could yield immediate benefits without requiring a complete overhaul of energy systems.
In my view, governments should adopt a balanced approach that incorporates both strategies. While it is crucial to invest in promising alternative energy technologies for long-term sustainability, we cannot neglect the potential for improving existing energy sources, which will continue to play a significant role in the near future. By allocating funds to both areas, governments can ensure a smooth transition to cleaner energy while maximizing efficiency and minimizing environmental impact in the interim.
In conclusion, the debate over energy research funding is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. However, a comprehensive strategy that combines investment in alternative sources with improvements to existing technologies offers the best path forward for addressing our energy challenges and creating a sustainable future.
(Word count: 310)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “In my view,” “However”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “finite,” “mitigate,” “accelerate innovation,” “revolutionize”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Nowadays, there is a debate about how governments should spend money on energy research. Some people think it’s better to focus on new energy sources, while others believe improving current energy technologies is more important. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support researching alternative energy sources say it’s necessary for the future. They think that oil and coal will run out one day, and these fuels also cause pollution. So, they want governments to invest in developing new energy like solar and wind power. They believe this can help solve environmental problems and provide energy for the long term.
On the other hand, people who want to improve existing energy sources argue that this is more practical. They say that we already have the infrastructure for current energy types, so it’s cheaper and easier to make them better. For example, we could make coal power plants cleaner or improve the efficiency of oil use. This could give us immediate benefits without big changes.
In my opinion, I think governments should do both. It’s important to research new energy sources for the future, but we also need to make our current energy use better. By doing both, we can have a good balance between preparing for the future and solving current problems.
To conclude, both views on energy research have good points. I believe a mix of researching new energy and improving current sources is the best way to handle our energy needs now and in the future.
(Word count: 253)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a mid-range band score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but uses simpler linking words and phrases (e.g., “On the other hand,” “For example”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay. Some attempts at using less common vocabulary are made (e.g., “infrastructure,” “efficiency”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good accuracy, but lacks the flexibility and range of the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions and pronunciations:
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alternative (adjective) /ɔːlˈtɜːr.nə.tɪv/: Available as another choice.
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sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/: The ability to continue over a period of time.
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finite (adjective) /ˈfaɪ.naɪt/: Having a limit or end.
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mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/: To make something less harmful, serious, or bad.
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infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/: The basic systems and services that a country or organization uses in order to work effectively.
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efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/: The good use of time and energy in a way that does not waste any.
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revolutionize (verb) /ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃə.naɪz/: To change something completely and fundamentally.
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accelerate (verb) /əkˈsel.ə.reɪt/: To happen or make something happen sooner or faster.
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allocate (verb) /ˈæl.ə.keɪt/: To give something officially to someone or for a particular purpose.
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comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/: Complete and including everything that is necessary.
Conclusion
The topic of government funding for alternative energy research is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of individuals vs. governments in addressing climate change
- The economic impacts of transitioning to renewable energy
- The challenges of implementing new energy technologies in developing countries
Remember to always analyze the question carefully, address all parts, and structure your essay logically. Practice using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures to improve your band score. Feel free to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.